Assistant Professor of Astrophysics

University of Colorado Boulder

Position Title

Tenure-track Faculty Position, Assistant Professor
Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences (APS)
University of Colorado Boulder

Requisition Number: 69040
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Employment Type: Full-Time Faculty
Posting Close Date: 30-Jan-2026
Date Posted: 11-Dec-2025

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Job Summary

The Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences (APS) Department at the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) is conducting a search for a tenure-track Assistant Professor.

We are interested in candidates from a broad range of astrophysical and planetary sciences, including researchers specializing in instrumentation, observation, theoretical, and computational approaches.

This position requires:

• Ability to develop and conduct an innovative independent research program
• Dedication to teaching undergraduate and graduate programs
• Commitment to supporting the diverse student populations in our department

The APS department values contributions from a broad range of perspectives to strengthen creativity and effectiveness. Individuals from all backgrounds, including protected veterans and persons with disabilities, are encouraged to apply.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.

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Who We Are

• APS has 30 faculty covering a broad range of astrophysical and planetary sciences
• Faculty are affiliated with CASA, JILA, and LASP
• Observational facilities include the ARC 3.5-meter and ARCSAT 0.5-meter telescopes
• CU Boulder participates in SDSS IV & V surveys and has access to Las Cumbres Observatory
• Facilities for high-performance computing and spaceborne/ground-based hardware development
• CU Boulder faculty have contributed to NASA flagship missions; active users of JWST
• National Solar Observatory headquarters is located on the Boulder campus
• Undergraduate program: ~400 majors
• Teaching facilities: Fiske Planetarium, Sommers-Bausch Observatory
• Graduate courses cover a wide range of astrophysical and planetary science topics

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Key Responsibilities

• Develop and conduct an innovative independent research program
• Teach in undergraduate and graduate programs
• Support the diverse student populations in the department

Additional details: APS Faculty Life & Expectations

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Appointment & Compensation

• Anticipated start date: August 13, 2026
• Salary range: $108,000 – $113,000 annually
• Startup funds: Available
• Relocation support: One-time $11,000

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, retirement plans
• Paid time off
• Tuition assistance for you and dependents
• ECO Pass for local transit
• Access to world-class outdoor recreation and CU Advantage perks

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Qualifications

• Required: Ph.D. or equivalent in astrophysics or related field by start date
• Demonstrated ability to develop independent research programs
• Dedication to teaching and mentoring
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion in the department

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Application Instructions

Materials to submit via CU Boulder Jobs:

1. Resume/CV
2. Cover Letter
3. Statement of Teaching Philosophy
4. Statement of Research Philosophy
5. Professional Publications (single PDF)
6. Research Paper(s) (single PDF)

References: Contact information for three references will be required for letters of recommendation later.

Deadline: Submit by January 16, 2026 for full consideration. Position remains open until January 30, 2026.

Note: Materials will not be accepted via email. Redaction of age-identifying information is allowed under Colorado Job Application Fairness Act.

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Contact Information

Posting Contact: Adele Ronen
Email: adele.ronen@colorado.edu

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